Entering MK for MNSSHP advice please

[mommym]

It's just me and the 2 boys for MNSSHP-my husband gave his blessing and said he's going to sit this one out as his vacation days are limited. We have our tickets to MNSSHP and don't plan to go to MK until it starts-I think it's 7PM. (Want to pace ourselves to be able to stay up later than usual.) My question is how stict are the cast members on when we can enter the park if we're only going to MNSSHP? I'm guessing we can't get in early and would be pleasantly surprised if we could. How early do you suggest we arrive? Is it a madhouse to enter or are most people in the MK already? Would love to hear any advice you may have and also anything else unique to WDW for Halloween that you can recommend. Thanks!!

 

[iwynlea]

You can start entering the park on your MNSSHP ticket around 4pm. Have a great trip!

 

[hiyall804]

Yes, I wanted to know this too. Do you need to have a ADR someplace (like LTT or CP) to get inside as early as 4pm or do they just let anyone with tickets in at that time. We are going Fri 10/20, and all we will have is our MNSSHP tickets (or we may have non-hopper passes and spend the day at MGM prior to going to MK).

Thanks Y'All

 

[iwynlea]

I know last year, we entered just on the MNSSHP tickets at 4pm and we did not have reservations anywhere (we went and ate at Cosmic Rays as soon as we were in the park, so we didn't have to spend any time eating at the party!). I think it's the same this year, or that's what I gather from reading other posts on the boards. We'll know for sure on 10/2!

 

[smacky1]

I would suggest getting there early to avoid the maddness at the entrance after dark. We went last year at 7:30 and it took 45 minutes just to get into the park. It takes longer to get through because they are putting bracletes on everyone. After waiting so long, our kids were hot in their costumes and already getting crabby. Then, with all the commotion, we missed getting trick or treat bags and park maps. If you've never been, make sure to get these right at the entrance. They do have them scattered throughout the park, but if you have them in the beginning its much easier. Also, getting there early allows you to get some rides in while the crowds are small and before the parades and fireworks start. This year we got to the park at 6 and completely went on all the rides in fantasy land, had some pictures taken with characters and spent some time in toon town before the 8:15 parade. I really thing getting there when its still light out gives you some time to orient yourself before it gets dark. Made a big difference for us.